(NAPSA)—If your idea of a are the Gorges de la Falaise, a remarkable “little canyon” with hiking trails leading to a beautiful waterfall. Absalon, Alma and the hot springs of Le Prcheur also provide “not-to-difficult” climbing, with the added bonus of a waterfall to cool off in after the hike. “restful” vacation involves cycling, hiking and even canyoning, you may want to check out the Caribbean island of Martinique. Although the beaches still remain Martinique’s most popular attraction, more and more visitors are coming to thislittle bit of France in the Caribbean to enjoy a variety of ecotourist activities. With its remarkable variety of landscapes, Martinique lends itself well to ecotourism. The island boasts soaring mountains and dramatic volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, lush, tropical rain forests and more. Here’s a breakdownof popularactivities: also easier hiking in the coastal rain forest between Grand-Rivire and Le Prcheur and on the Presquwiile de la Caravelle, a peninsula jutting six miles into the Atlantic. Cycling The island offers a numberof bik- ing itineraries. Cyclists can rent bikes in Fort-de-France or Pointe du Bout. For serious biking there is the annual “Tour de la Martinique,” a thrilling, weeklong race with international teams competing in a miniversion of the famous “Tour de France.” For more information, visit www.martinique.org. Martinique At A Glance The French island of Martinique lies in the heart of the Caribbean Archipelago and is one of the manyislands that make up the group known as “The Breezy Islands,” The 426-square-mile island has the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Caribbean Seatoits west. It’s 1,400 miles from Miami and has a mean temperature of 79. Martinique is home to a numberof natural attractions, including the two peaks of Carbet and Mont Pele—a dormantvolcano spanning 4,586 vertical ee i Canyoning at Gorges Falaise. Hiking And Walking There are hiking tours for all levels, but the more serious ones include a two-hour climb up Mont Pele, a dormant volcano. Thereis Martinique’s coastal road. Photos courtesy of Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA Canyoning Tucked away in the heart of the northern tropical rain forest feet. Theislandis also hometo a tropical rain forest, the majestic Lamentin Plain, and the beautiful Les Salines Beach. Visitors to Martinique shop for indigenousart, as well as fine clothing and wares. The island also has a number of fine restaurants and luxury hotels. The island's events and streetfestivals provide a taste ofits culture and hospitality. @
